MIDDLESEX — The mayors of New Brunswick and East Brunswick have declared states of emergency in their communities.

In New Brunswick, Mayor James Cahill has ordered a mandatory evacuation of residents from Neilson Street to the Raritan River between Albany Street and Commercial Avenue as of 9 a.m. this morning. That area was flooded last year when Tropical Storm Irene pushed the river over its banks and across Route 18.

Cahill said he is shutting down the city as of 9 a.m. today and only emergency personnel will be allowed on the roads — and must have proper identification in order to be allowed on the roads.

He said all city services are suspended "until further notice" and city schools will be closed today and Tuesday.

The city has opened a shelter at the Lord Stirling School on George Street.

In East Brunswick, Mayor David Stahl has ordered mandatory evacuations for Main Street from River Road to Old Bridge Turnpike, Squire Street, Emerson Strreet, Oak Street, River Road to Millman Drive, Millman Drive, Jernee Drive, Cornell Drive and portions of Addington Court.

Stahl said public schools will be closed today and Tuesday. Township buildings are also closed.